Chapter 802

Reginald Blackwood's petty maneuvers within Blackwood Industries barely registered on Nathan's radar.

Nathan knew his grandfather wouldn't dare escalate matters. A media scandal would tarnish Blackwood Industries' reputation beyond repair. Yet the old man's scheme worked precisely because exposure would force Nathan to remain as CEO indefinitely - a headache he didn't need. Theodore Winslow fretted openly. What if Nathan got ousted?

"Mr. Blackwood, we should've prepared countermeasures earlier. How could your own grandfather conspire with outsiders against you? Has he lost his mind—?" Theodore's blunt words hung in the air as Nathan's expression darkened. Harrison cleared his throat pointedly, cutting off the tactless remark.

"Chairman Blackwood remains chairman until he formally resigns," Harrison emphasized. The seasoned assistant never let his guard down - not before resolution, not after. His meticulousness had served Nathan flawlessly for years, earning his reputation as Blackwood Industries' most valuable executive.

Theodore scratched his head, muttering about the complexities of wealthy families. Maintaining power wasn't easy - neither the fortune nor the CEO title came without constant challenges. Nathan drummed his fingers on the mahogany desk. "Still sending documents daily?" Harrison nodded. "Chairman Blackwood initially raged and shredded them. Now he just tears them quietly. His temper seems... stabilized."

"Stabilized?" Nathan's lips curled skeptically. The cunning old fox was anything but stable.

Harrison's phone buzzed mid-report. His gaze remained impassive. "Sir, Adrian Blackwood has arrived. He's at the—"

Before he could finish, the door burst open. No security dared stop the wildcard heir. "Uncle Nathan! Surprise visit!" Adrian announced cheerfully.

Theodore gaped at the reality TV star whose shows he binge-watched during meals. Though nephew and uncle shared striking good looks, their appeal differed drastically. Adrian radiated boyish charm that made audiences adore him instantly. Nathan's beauty was more dangerous - an arresting presence that commanded rooms and intimidated rivals.

Nathan's glacial stare should've frozen Adrian in place. Instead, the younger man plopped onto the desk. "Still holding court here? Shouldn't you be doting on Evelyn while she's unwell? Unless... she won't see you?" Adrian's teasing smirk deepened Nathan's scowl.

"Interesting priorities," Nathan countered smoothly. "Especially when tabloids have you entering hotels with that actress from your crew. The photos are... compromising." Adrian's grin faltered. "Uncle Nathan—"

The office collectively held its breath.

Adrian shrugged with forced nonchalance. "Vivian and I are both consenting adults. What's the big deal?" Theodore's jaw dropped further. 'Holy scoop!'

"No issue at all," Nathan agreed mildly. "Except when your father finds out. Then it becomes... problematic." Adrian's cocky demeanor crumbled. He rubbed his neck sheepishly.

Straightening abruptly, he adopted a contrite expression. "Uncle Nathan... I come in peace!"